Business Administration, Management and Operations at Georgia State University

Georgia State's business program costs less than average and earns more than average—a straightforward win for value-conscious families. With debt of $27,375 and first-year earnings of $47,730, graduates start with manageable obligations that represent just seven months of income. That's substantially better than the national median, where business graduates typically carry debt worth nearly eight months of earnings. Among Georgia's 54 business programs, this one ranks in the 60th percentile for earnings while keeping debt near the state median, making it a solid middle-tier option in a competitive market.

The earnings trajectory tells an encouraging story: graduates see 15% income growth by year four, reaching nearly $55,000. While this doesn't match the elite outcomes at Emory or Georgia Tech (where business grads earn $85,000+ and $73,000+ respectively), it reflects the realities of a large public university serving a diverse student body—half of whom receive Pell grants. The program's accessibility matters: your child gets above-average outcomes without needing top-5% test scores or private school tuition.

For families seeking a business degree that balances cost, accessibility, and solid career prospects, Georgia State delivers. The numbers aren't flashy, but they're reliably better than most alternatives in Georgia and across the country. That consistency matters more than chasing the highest possible starting salary, especially when it comes without excessive debt.